Race for Life call is sent out to West Midlands women

Registration for women of all ages and fitness abilities opened today for the 5k challenges. This year, organisers need 11,250 women and girls across the region to sign up and help raise £543,000. Every hour, around three people are diagnosed with cancer in the West Midlands alone.

Emily Thompson, Cancer Research UK West Midlands events manager urged people to enter and said: "Together, we can hit cancer where it hurts. There are over 200 cancers and we won't give up until we find cures for them all.

"It's fighting talk, but we mean every word we say. Cancer, the West Midlands is coming to get you."

Events are at Walsall Arboretum, Wolverhampton's West Park, Dudley's Himley Hall and Stafford County Showground.

Every year, women dress in pink to raise cash for the cause and in memory of their lost loved ones.

Ms Thompson added: "Women of all shapes, sizes, ages and levels of fitness take part in Race for Life.

"They come from different backgrounds and walks of life but they are united by their absolute determination to take on cancer and beat it.

"Race for Life is non-competitive. It's not about being fit or fast.

"Most women are able to walk 5k in an hour while chatting and having fun. Or they can choose to jog, run or even dance around the course if they prefer.

"Race for Life is an amazing way to celebrate life but also remember those who have been lost to the disease.

"Participants may be decked out in pink or fancy dress but what's inescapable is the power and strength that comes from thousands of women joining together to confront cancer. Don't be fooled by the tutus and tiaras. West Midlands' Race for Life events are cancer's worst nightmare."

To enter go to www.raceforlife.org or call 0845 600 6050.

Race for Life schedule 2013

Walsall Arboretum Sunday, May 19

Wolverhampton West Park, Wednesday, June 19

Staffordshire County Showground, Tuesday, July 9

Dudley Himley Hall, Sunday, July 14